Is this the best sports car ever? Honda S2000 - Raiti's Rides
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- Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
- The Honda S2000 is the type of car that not only brings enjoyment to people who own one, but also an iconic car that made a HUGE impact on the auto industry. Is it possible that this is the best sports car in the world?
As a former of 2 Honda S2000s, I can tell you that the Honda S2000 is the greatest car ever made. Yes, EVER.
I believe it!
Everyone who drives an s2k waves at other s2k drivers where I live. Never had a car that had a lot of love everywhere I drove
I love that kind of brotherhood!
Do you happen to live in AZ? That happens here all the time when I see other S2ks on the road.
I’ve never seen another S while driving mine!
@@fhowland same here! When iam driving my daily driver a s2000 shows up at times lol
As a former owner of a Rio Yellow S2K, I can safely say it's one of the funnest cars ever made. It was so raw and fun. The gearbox was awesome as well. Sometimes I miss it so much.
Kuma Inu I totally agree with you! Thank you for your great feedback.
The only car that compares is the ND Miata and that’s a much less raw, “manly” experience with a much less visceral engine
I love the S2K and LHT.
amill1563 they really are both awesome! LHT are good people!
To people unfamiliar with S2000, it is a mid engine, rear wheel driven car. The front of the engine is right behind the axle of the front wheel, achieving the 50/50 weight distribution. The design of S2000 is borrowed from the F1 level engineering in the making of its brother, the NSX. Thank you Mr. Uehara, the Honda chief engineer, for this beautiful masterpiece of engineering.
Thanks for the feedback!
Well said. Very quick handling indeed. Tremendous fun.
Great video. I can afford any sports car made but none of them are going to provide more pure driving pleasure than the S2K. I've had an AP1 for 8 years and drive it quickly on mountain roads where I live. Miata, Boxster, GT-R, BMW Z, whatever those manufacturers do, they will never duplicate the S2K.
Thanks for saying that and letting me share it with you!
Exactly right.
I've owned my S2k for 15 yrs , I just can't part with it. I've thought of selling it, then thought twice. I don't think I'll ever part with it.
I have owned many good cars and many I sold but I am still keeping my AP1. Why? It's is the closest thing to a motorcycle!
It is so much fun, and is so nimble.
The beat is closer to a motorcycle
My AP 1 handles like a go-cart, is plenty fast, (particularly with the VTEC), sounds just fine with the stock duel exhaust, and has a great gearbox. The design is holding up...and I get asked at stop lights and grocery stores if I want to sell it. I'm under six feet tall also, and for me it fits me perfectly. LHT mods in Clearwater may be an excellent investment eventually, but the stock version is a blast.
Best sports car I've ever own. Might have to go n buy my third S2k. LOVE UR VIDEOS MAN!!!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Great video. I bought my AP1 pre-release back in 1999 and still love it. I had a lotus Elise series 1 before the S2000 but love the Honda better. Great car that I will keep for ever.
I like your enthusiasm for the S2000. I have a 2002 S2000 that I use daily here in Edinburgh. It’s not the fastest car I’ve owned but it is probably the most fun on a twisty road. I’ve owned a 1976 911 carrera 3:0, Porsche 968 Sport and a Caterham 7, so saying that is high praise from me.
Thank you so much for saying those wonderful things! They really are a ton of fun! You definetly speak from some great experience with great cars!
I absolutely love my 02 AP1! Had it for 12 years/180 000km and it's still going strong! If I had to sell it I'd cry...!
I have an '02 as well. It's pure fun, and it doesn't need 4 second 0 to 60 times. The handling and the sound of the motor is addicting. And no automatic was ever available....which is just fine. You pay 50 grand or more for the new Supra and you can't get a six speed. That's an abomination.
Awesome video! One thing you forgot to mention that was really important in the way the car handles is the 50/50 weight distribution and it has front and rear double wishbone suspension. Otherwise you nailed it! Also with the majority of the crowd, I prefer the more raw ap1!
kelvinballer23 thanks for your great feedback I appreciate the extra input. The AP1 does really have a different personality. I appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching!
God was showing off when he created the S2K
Also when he created taco bell
@@chinchy111 Now you’re talking 😉
I've owned four S2000s. A 2003, 2004, 2006 and a 2002 in that order. All 4 were absolutely great cars, the '02 being my favorite. And to top it off after 3 years of ownership and 20,000 miles later I sold it for $3k more than I paid for it!
BUT......I now own a 2008 Miata GT PRHT. Why?....at 66 I find it more comfortable and what is cool about the Miata you can drive it at 9/10s and still not be breaking any laws. The S2000 at lower rpms is pretty pedestrian. It's not until you're into the VTEC, around 6,000rpm, that the magic happens. By then you are already past legal speeds. Don't get me wrong, the magic that happens is something special. I miss that magic.
The Miata, on the other hand, can be driven hard from the get-go without feeling slow. It's like an eager puppy, just waiting to have fun. You can have a blast on your way to legal speed limits. The Miata does not wish it was an S2000. It knows what it is and happily represents its niche, an affordable 2 seat sports car.
Both the S2000 and Miata are great cars and no matter which one you buy you won't be disappointed.
Dan Wells that is some great and amazing insight! Thank you so much for sharing!
I own a 2002 too as well and it’s almost a perfect vehicle 👍🏻
I also have a 2002. It really feels like the car is part of me. And even though it’s not the fastest thing on the road, it’s easily the most fun.
I'll never sell my 2002 s2k ,I may buy an MX5 though.😎
I own a 2002 as well and the anticipation of that "magic" of the VTEC kicking in at 6000 RPM is huge! Sometimes I wish I still had my '71 240 Z, but the S 2000 is just awesome.
I've owned a BMW and Porsche, but my S2000 is my favorite and I will keep it till I'm too old to drive. The car is aging well and I agree that it will become a classic. Hopefully my grandson will want it some day.
Thanks for your feedback. That would be great to share that with your grandson.
As for styling I still prefer the AP1. Looks pure and more classic than the AP2. Sure the AP2 has a little more torque but you can’t beat the 9k redline. And no I’m not a teenage driver who revs up to 9k all day. I actually baby my car and it has never let me know. My e46 m3 once left me stranded on the freeway with a dead fuel pump...the day I purchased it from a gentleman who was 2 hours away from me
Trust me, NO ONE is "lucky" to live in Clearwater Florida.
Why is that?
@@RaitisRides I've heard traffic is brutal to go anywhere.
I love my ap2. The design is timeless, and it feels very special. My 04 is black and has 22k miles on it.. I hope to have it for a long time.
S2kTi you’re very lucky to have a pristine example of a perfect sports car.
It's been the best car that I have owned. Looks so good in red!
That is so awesome! Thanks for the feedback!
Awesome! Mine is the best by far, and I've owned some good ones. Cheapest to own and maintain as well! Even compared to my "practical" cars!
I have one from 2001 Ap1
I bay anther one from USA 2006 Ap2
I’m witting to ship my car to my
this man loves this beautiful car, great video !
PirateNightsuN I love them all! 😍
II IS the BEST Sports Car ever. This and the NSX that is!
Man this baby looks really clean
Have had five of these gems in the last 5 years. When the 5 kids grew up I decided to do something for myself. Was contemplating a MX5 but remembered seeing an S2000 back in 2000 and admired it.
Bought a 99 MCB and love driving it but wanted something with lower klms. Bought a 99 MCB with only 13000klm in 2015 and it has just hit 17000 klm.
Sold the first one and bought a 2000 GPW and put J's racing kit on her and loved the feel. Had an opportunity to buy a race prepared Supercharged 01 (43000klm) model with AP2 exterior and interior upgrades so did it. Put the GPW back to stock and sold her.
Two months later an 01 yellow one came up with 30000 less klm, genuine Circuit Garage wide fenders, $4500 worth of wheels and Scizzor doors for the same price I sold the GPW.
Did not need a third S2k again but shit I just love these cars. Each of the three is completely different to drive. My daughter only commented today that the low mileage one smells like a brand new car.
That is so great! Thank you for sharing your great story!
I'm a PROUD OWNER of the ICONIC S2K, her name is SAVAGE... And yes, we waive to each other in passing, but in Bowie, MD, I've only seen 3. One of which was a police office that pulled me over for 57 MPH in a 35 MPH. When I asked if I take my belt off to get my wallet "because the car is small" he said, I know what you mean, I have one too. WTF, so we started talking about how awesome the car is and I kid you not, he let me off with a warning... I was so happy, I drove home at 30 MPH the entire way home!!!
Definitely top 5 best car ever made
I totally agree with you!
Torque? That's what a supercharger is for...it's why you typically see them on V8's because they are so well suited to a naturally aspirated engines. they help with torque, while maintaining that linear power band.
thelocustemperor this owner is planning to go exactly in that direction.
in everyone of these videos about the S2000, the celebrate the stock ones and tell you that a stock one is very hard to find and how special they are. They then tell us how they are going to modify it and add to the problem.
also make sure to upgrade your valve spring retainers to aftermarket one's, this is very important. Like Porsche 996 engine failure important, just youtube it, guy blew his engine after just one of these broke while driving...
thelocustemperor thanks for your great input!
Joe wearing slacks, belt and loafers. How things change...
Thank you for review! I love S2000 and I hope one day I will buy it))
But I don't understand why Honda many-many years don't make cool cars (S2000 included). I thing that the best time for next generation S2000 was 2016-2018. For what the Honda marketing mens and CEOs take a money? Maybe they are working for BMW and Porsche?...
Keep it stock. So much better.
John Stout thanks for your input!
Why are they all advertised as two litre models on 'gumtree', despite being post 2007 models?
If this was my car I would definitely keep it stock and not modify it
gonna be adding an S2000 to the garage in the VERY near future!
I just got one too!
@@fhowland nice!!!
I love the Honda S2000, 9,000RPM 240hp..6spd manual transmission and a roadster, sounds like a poor man's Ferrari to me, my budd let me drive his 02 Honda S2000 one afternoon and I still can't seem to forget that awesome car..I need to sell my WRX so I can get one.
Beautiful drivers car like the S2000 needs to be driven, not parked and invested for years and years. If you are investing in a car by holding it for 10-20 years just to double your money, you sir dont know how to invest your money.
„...Switching off the traction controll...“ you can‘t switch off the traction controll ... just the stability controll... traction stays on all the time.
Pascal Stelzl thanks for the feedback.
I’m 6’1” tall just under 200# will I enjoy this car? I watch Raiti’s ALL THE TIME and I love when I hear you give the “Raiti’s height review”. What do you think? Also I’m looking at a Toyota G98. I love your videos.
Love you videos. I have a question for you. I`m looking at purchasing a 2009 Pontiac Solstice but this one is a Targa Top and they only made 1,266. Do you think this is a good investment? It only has 20,000 Kilometers on it Thank you :) I'm looking at that or a Honda S2000
Didn’t know about the club racer. How much does this car go for?
Double G brand new they were $36k. They are going to be pricey even for a used one.
Price is still about the same for a well maintained CR. Value is appreciating so they’ll only get higher
joel rojas they are so rare and are appreciating. I’ve only seen one locally. Thanks for the feedback.
I love my 07'. Last summer I had LHT do a KW kit on it. Dyno'd at 427WHP and 277WTQ! Amazing machine and one I will keep for ever. Such a holistic driving experience.
You have one hell of a S2000!
Interesting...the owner must have liked the silver over the cupholders rather than the black. 2006 and up was black and between the roof toggle and hazard button is the rear window defrost. It was moved when they put the VSA switch where the defrost used to be. This car has silver and no button. The seats, steering wheel Honda emblem, VSA button, and parcel shelf thing say it is a 2006 and up so my only guess is he liked silver and he didn't care about defrosting the window so he just left that button under the cover...or he moved it somewhere else...
The details someone notices who has had two S2000s for the last 17 years...a 2002 AP1 and a 2007 AP2. Haha.
itr and 4gen vtec preludes are also manual only, exclusive club haha
This is so true!
The Honda S2000 is Honda sticking a middle finger to all the expensive supercars. The NSX is Honda slaping them on the side of the head.
Lol. I bought a Nitrous Blue Focus RS, like the one in the background, to replace my S2k. 18 months later, the RS was traded in, I still have my S2k. Have a 981C GTS now....will she see off 'Berlinda'.....not so far :)
Thank you for sharing your thoughts ad input! I appreciate you watching!
The way this machine looks will always age well. I’m talking about the car Joe
That's one review with personality. Sometimes funny but right on the case
Tat really means a lot! Thank you for watching!
My dream car
You can make this dream come true!
Girls Car: VW Cabrio, Mini, New Bug. That's it.
Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
Excellent video, top notch.
Michael Jordan I really appreciate that. Thank you so much for watching! 😊👍🏻
Honda S2000: a go-cart...but on wheels😈
Other cars may be faster, even better handling, or have more attention getting styling, but no car reaches the EPM (enjoyment per mile) score of the S2000. A stock red 2003 S2K has been my daily driver for 17 years. However, credit should go to Mazda for ensuring the convertible sport car concept did not vanish into automotive history.
You are so very right!
That's My Actually Dream Car when I was a kid!!! 😰 💯
i've owned 2 ! AP1 and AP2 ... AP1 is my favorite
Timsta Woahz you are s lucky person. Everyone I have talked to says they like the AP1 better. Is it extra RPM you can turn compared to the AP2?
I like the AP1 better bc it feels more of a drivers car without the traction control and stuff like that . Although you do have to be careful bc it does like to come out from under you lol I do prefer the AP2 styling tho .
Thanks for the awesome feedback! Those are some really good points!
I own a 2005 model here in the UK, for some reason in Europe we got the updated looks and some of the handling modifications on models shipped during 2004 - 2006, but kept the original 9,000 RPM 2.0 engine without the traction control. I feel that the missing 1,000 RPM of VTEC unicorn farts on the 2.2 litre versions just seems to lack some of the experience that only 9,000 RPM can deliver. Anybody looking to buy one should test drive both, but I certainly recommend the original 2.0 engine for the sheer excitement value. Surely you just shift down a peg to deal with the supposed torque issues that everybody always goes on about?! Its certainly not a drag racer, its in the corners where this car shines bright! Amazing car, love it!! Never sell situation! Good luck finding one if your looking. ;)
I think you hit the nail right on the head! Thanks for your awesome perspective. Very good information and how crazy that you would have some kind of "hybrid" from the factory.
Sports car nirvana!
yes, yes it is.
It is such an AMAZING car! I wish Honda can bring back this kind of driving pleasure!
Proud owner of a 2007 Laguna Pearl Blue here. I agree with your excitement and overall assessment of the car!
Hi Fred! You are a very lucky guy. These S2000s are really incredible.
I want one is RED......cant wait
It is so beautiful!
awesome video man thaaaaanx...keep it up
thank you so much for saying that I really appreciate it!
My 2008 has 23k miles!
Can't wait to see what lht does to this beauty
Stay tuned and thanks for watching!
Go kart on wheels
I’m been waiting for someone to notice that! Lol I should give you an award. 😂
Garbage audio. Re-record or boost audio in post.
I didn't hear the engine start..wow.
I like your enthusiasm
Iconic! Love the S2000's!
They just don't make them like this anymore!
This has nothing to do with the S2000...but I think you should get your Focus RS wrapped. There are so many blue ones out there, and it would make for some really good videos!
Sirpalmtree I think your channel should sponsor it! 😊👍🏻. I’m ready whenever you are!
Lol, I don't know about that...
Sirpalmtree you can sleep on it!
Ok, you won me over when you said LHT!
Ldunk stay tuned because I have and LHT update on this car coming up!😎👍🏻
Excellent, I live in New Orleans and am going to bring mine to LHT. I fell in love with what they do and am going to do a slight mod to mine.
Great! They do excellent work, and not just on S2000s. What are you thinking of getting done?
Epic Roadster
You are so very right! Thank you for letting me share it with you!
Surly your not going to take it to be molested.
Not at all Peter.
What is AP stand for?
It's just an internal chassis code for Honda.
Are you ever in the Sarasota area?
Sometimes, why? Anything good going on there?
@@RaitisRides don't know if you would be interested to review a 1993 Mazda RX7 with lower mileage. Just changed out the wheels, radio, and suspension but have all those original parts to swap back. Only bolt on things.
1993 Mazda RX7 FD imgur.com/gallery/rsnJH5d
@@Pietro931 Oh wow! She is a real beauty! Can you email me at:
raitisrides@gmail.com
can u drift it tho?
Antonis Giotis if you have the skills, sure!
Hell yeah it can!
It can be done, yes but its a horrible platform for it.
yes you can, only the ap1 bites by its nature, ap2 is sorted (thinner rear antiroll bar and bit different geometry).. it has a torsen lsd stock, (better getting a clutch type one), you can drift it like crazy... if you would need more torque, the engine with stock forged internals and stupidly strong crank is good for 450hp in stock form by a supercharger, power the "drifters heaven" like nissan silvia can only dream of.. another thing is, that nissan shitbox has 54/46, this beauty has the ideal 50/50 weight distribution, as it is stricly front-mid engine (engine is placed behind the front axle) car - FMR layout = actually the BEST PLATFORM for a proper drifters car...
This channel has come a long way
This video rocks! It makes me feel so proud to have both AP1 & AP2.
You are a very lucky person! Thanks for watching!
Yes. 100% collectible
This is gonna be my next car!🤩🙏
You will love it!
Fail, not enough space for taller drivers...
How tall are you? I'm 6ft and it felt just fine.
6'-4" 38" inseam... (most cars are too small)
bikebudha01 you are tall! Could get a nice GT type sedan.
Yep, i,m 6 foot. Had to sell mine. A 2005 with 38,000 miles. Have a SL 500 now, but miss the Honda!
300,000,000 Americans. 5% are over 6' tall, that's 15,000,000 people who need a small convertible with enough leg room, telescopic steering wheels, and a seat that can be adjusted with some tile. I would think at least one car company would want to tap that market...
Great video .....s2000 prices have skyrocketed to the moon..... buying a stock, unmolested one are > $40k and are only gonna keep going up.... b/c future cars will be electric. This was one of the greatest and last examples of a refined naturally aspirated engine. If you got one... keep it. If you got a chance to get one-- grab it...it’s a true classic...that I predict will be worth over 100k easy soon. 😎
You are so very welcome!
Damn I had a chance to buy one and I missed out!
jdrracer there are still some good ones out there you just need to be patient.
Totaled my ZR1 so shopping for another toy now. This is one of three I’m looking at. Always loved these cars. In my humble opinion I think it’s one of the best sports cars ever made. Just can’t decide whether to get the AP1 or AP2.
You probably bought a car already and maybe not even an S2000, but most people will tell you AP1 with the higher redline and a bit snappier steering characteristics. I disagree after owning both. Go for the AP2, specifically the 2006 and up to get the drive-by-wire. Again, people say that dilutes the experience. Well, it provides the ability to more easily tune the car. Even if you don't go crazy with parts...even if you leave it stock or put a CAI on it, you can plug a Hondata right into the car and tune it. Raise the redline a hair, lower Vtec engagement, etc. Without DBW is much more difficult to do anything to. Supercharging? Much easier with Hondata on a DBW car to tune it. The more agressive handling characteristics can be done with a suspension set up. Even just going with the European/UK alignment does wonders. Its a bit more comfortable too with the extra space carved out of the door armrests, two cupholders, more speakers, etc.
How much - I’m ready to buy $$$$
Also no need to Rev it up like that - If you’re a freaking car man get real dammit
LOL
Wow... that’s a pretty sick car. I didn’t know a lot about it until your video. Thanks for bringing us such great reviews Joe!
Lori Givens you’re very welcome! Stay tuned for so awesome review coming
I love my AP2 but my old JDM DC2 has my heart, the S2k just doesn’t compare and I doubt it’d get away from the Teg in the twisties.
Thank you for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!
no the miata is.
Thanks Rob for sharing your input and perspective!
❤❤❤
“Normally aspirated” lol 9:48
Joe is the man!!!!
I really appreciate you watching ad your great support!!!
Joe did research this video well. I've owned an AP2 (same year as the one tested) for 7 years and he hit the nail on the head with his description. Not the fastest car out there but perhaps the most fun you can get.
S2KNorth wow I really appreciate your kind words! It is really the most fun you can have on 4 wheels.
Those things would rev to 9 grand..had a friend who had one
So very true!
Just subbed.
Javier Benites thanks for the support! Stay tuned!
I love the AP1 front end and Wheels A lot better looking.
I totally agree with you!
lol, a miata must have really hurt his feelings in the past. he could have compared it to any other car in existence.
Tre Robinson the joke was most not car people think it’s a Miata instead of and S2000.
Did that drivers door get repainted? It looks lighter than the rest of the body. Might be the lighting though
james baker nope not at all. It has to be the lighting but you have one hell of a good eye. Thanks for watching!
Also, the armrest is not the stock one. :( That is a 04-05 one (aluminum). 06-07 is black which integrates the rear defroster. Someone has some explaining to do. Lol Great review btw! :)
Dexter Lee thanks for the awesome feedback! Good eye and you know your stuff. I appreciate the compliment.😊👍🏻
Awesome vid Joe!!
Thanks a lot for your support! I appreciate you watching!
They're overpriced atm.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and perspective! I appreciate you watching!
Not over priced. Worth ever cent. Buy one before they increase even more.
It’s a peace of garbage by a real sports car like mustang trans am corvette
Cheap interior...horrible ride quality..hood that wants to make a statement...Miata killed it..left people bragging about 50-50 and resale value! Rough...rough ride with a civic like interior! For the money..first gen Miata modded would leave this thing I the dust...with way less investment! Everyone that has one loves the hood the most😂
i really like your videos!! your articulation is good
stupidboyrofl I really appreciate the kind words! Thank you for watching!